Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, especially when it’s stuffed with gooey cheese and infused with savory garlic butter. If you’re searching for the perfect appetizer, party snack, or side dish, this cheesy garlic pull apart bread recipe is a must-try. With its golden crust, melty cheese, and rich garlic flavor, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

In this post, you’ll discover how simple it is to make your own cheesy garlic pull apart bread from scratch. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right bread and cheese to tips for achieving that perfect pull-apart texture. Let’s dive into the world of homemade comfort food that’s both easy and irresistible!

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Why You’ll Love Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread

• Easy to Make: No complicated steps or fancy equipment needed.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, family dinners, or game nights.
• Customizable: Swap out cheeses, add herbs, or include extras like bacon or jalapeños.
• Irresistible Flavor: Buttery garlic, melty cheese, and soft bread in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for this classic cheesy garlic pull apart bread recipe:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Round loaf bread	1 (about 1 lb/450g)	Sourdough or Italian works well
Unsalted butter	1/2 cup (1 stick/115g)	Softened
Garlic cloves	4-5, minced	Fresh is best
Mozzarella cheese	1 1/2 cups (150g)	Shredded
Cheddar cheese	1/2 cup (50g)	Shredded, optional
Fresh parsley	2 tbsp, chopped	Or use dried herbs
Salt	1/2 tsp	Adjust to taste
Black pepper	1/4 tsp	Optional
Olive oil	1 tbsp	For extra crispiness

Optional Add-ins:

• Red pepper flakes for heat
• Chopped chives or green onions
• Cooked bacon bits
• Parmesan cheese

Choosing the Best Bread

What Bread Works Best?

The foundation of your cheesy garlic pull apart bread is, of course, the bread itself. Here’s what to look for:

• Round Loaf: Sourdough, Italian, or French boule are ideal. They have a sturdy crust and soft interior.
• Crusty Exterior: Helps hold everything together and gives a satisfying crunch.
• Soft Inside: Allows the cheese and garlic butter to soak in.

Tip: Avoid pre-sliced bread. A whole, unsliced loaf will give you the best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the loaf on a cutting board.
3. Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the bread into a grid pattern:
   
   • Slice parallel lines about 1 inch apart, being careful not to cut all the way through.
   • Rotate the loaf and repeat, creating a crosshatch pattern.
4. The bread should remain intact at the bottom, forming deep pockets.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
2. Mix until well blended. The mixture should be spreadable.

Step 3: Stuff the Bread

1. Gently pry apart the bread sections to expose the pockets.
2. Use a butter knife or spoon to spread the garlic butter mixture deep into the crevices.
3. Stuff shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese into the pockets, ensuring even distribution.
4. Sprinkle any extra cheese on top for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Wrap the stuffed loaf loosely in aluminum foil. This helps melt the cheese without over-browning.
2. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
3. Unwrap the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Pull Apart Bread

• Don’t Cut All the Way Through: Leave the bottom of the loaf intact to keep it together.
• Use Fresh Garlic: It gives a stronger, more aromatic flavor than garlic powder.
• Mix Cheeses: Combining mozzarella for stretch and cheddar for sharpness creates a richer taste.
• Add Herbs: Fresh parsley, chives, or even rosemary add a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve Warm: The bread is best enjoyed hot, right out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy garlic pull apart bread is incredibly versatile. Here are some tasty ways to serve it:

• Appetizer: Perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
• Side Dish: Serve alongside pasta, soup, or salad.
• Game Day Snack: A hit at any sports event or movie night.
• Brunch Addition: Pair with eggs, bacon, or a breakfast casserole.

Dipping Sauces:

• Marinara sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Garlic aioli
• Pesto

Storing and Reheating

How to Store

• Room Temperature: If you have leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in foil and store at room temperature for up to 1 day.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat

• Oven: Wrap in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces for 20-30 seconds, but note that the crust may not stay as crisp.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its stretchiness, you can use any cheese you like. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a little blue cheese can add unique flavors. Mixing cheeses gives your pull apart bread a richer, more complex taste.

2. Can I make cheesy garlic pull apart bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bread up to the baking step, wrap it tightly in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed. This makes it a great make-ahead option for parties or busy weeknights.

3. What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of garlic powder. However, fresh garlic provides a stronger, more aromatic flavor.

4. Can I use store-bought dough instead of a whole loaf?

Yes! You can use canned biscuit dough, pizza dough, or even crescent roll dough. Shape the dough into a round or oval, score it, and follow the same steps for stuffing and baking.

5. How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, use a crusty bread with a firm exterior. Don’t overdo the butter, and make sure to bake uncovered at the end so the crust crisps up. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Related Recipes:

• Crispy Oven Garlic Mushrooms
• Southern Honey Cornbread Popper
• Garlic Butter Bacon Rollups

Final Thoughts

Cheesy garlic pull apart bread is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. The combination of soft, buttery bread, melty cheese, and fragrant garlic makes it a universal favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a comforting snack, or just want to impress your family, this recipe is sure to deliver. Try it once, and it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate cheesy garlic pull apart bread. Happy baking!